Missile strike kills over 32 in Ukraine’s Sumi city

Kyiv: Russia launched a missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumi on Sunday morning, killing more than 32 people and injuring dozens, including children. The attack took place at around 10:15 am in the city centre, where people had gathered to celebrate Palm Sunday.

Ukrainian officials said two ballistic missiles hit the area, causing widespread devastation. Footage shared on Ukrainian social media platforms showed bodies lying on the ground as emergency responders rushed to the scene.

“Our community gathered to celebrate Palm Sunday has suffered a terrible tragedy,” acting mayor Artem Kobazar said in a post on social media.

Ukraine’s state emergency service said in a statement that at least 32 people, including a child, were confirmed dead, while 84 others were injured, among them seven children.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said rescue operations were underway following the attack.

The missile strike comes just two days after US envoy Steve Witcalfe visited Russia in an effort to negotiate a ceasefire. During his visit, he also held talks with President Vladimir Putin.